The 15-Minute Chef

Rating:
Summary: 500 speed cooking recipes
Review: I received this book as a gift a number of years ago, but I'm not quite sure why as I don't cook all that often, and had more than enough time on my hands. As one can tell from the title, it is geared towards those modern (North) Americans who are really strapped for time, but still want to cook their own meals. The cardinal sins for the traditional cook--using the microwave and canned goods--are a must for these recipes. Of course the instructions for each state that they can be made in 15 minutes or less, but seriously... who are we kidding? Cooking takes time, because there's more to cooking than just cooking. Moreover, the cooking times she suggests do little more than heat the food and give the appearance of being cooked--which compromises both flavor and quality, I think. Still, the book does have good recipes.

Rating:
Summary: 500 speed cooking recipes
Review: I received this book as a gift a number of years ago, but I'm not quite sure why as I don't cook all that often, and had more than enough time on my hands. As one can tell from the title, it is geared towards those modern (North) Americans who are really strapped for time, but still want to cook their own meals. The cardinal sins for the traditional cook--using the microwave and canned goods--are a must for these recipes. Of course the instructions for each state that they can be made in 15 minutes or less, but seriously... who are we kidding? Cooking takes time, because there's more to cooking than just cooking. Moreover, the cooking times she suggests do little more than heat the food and give the appearance of being cooked--which compromises both flavor and quality, I think. Still, the book does have good recipes.

Rating:
Summary: "OUTSTANDING!
Review: This book is a must have for every kitchen! All the recipies are simple, easy to understand and contain ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. This book has something for everyone. Busy working folks who are tired of eating out and want a home cooked meal without the hassle, families that are on the go and need meals ready in a flash, the inexperienced cook will find delicious, easy to prepare menu's, gourmet's will love the recipies wonderful tastes and short preparation time. The book is written clearly and referenced for easy searches. The introduction to each of the recipes are informative, touching, and at times very humerous as Patrica Mack shares little tidbits about herself and her family. A book for every kitchen and a wonderful gift idea.

Rating:
Summary: Great Ideas, Very Few Ingredients, Wonderful Taste
Review: This is a great book to keep on hand. So far, everything I have made was really well received by my family (and they are fussy!). The chicken piccata is especially delicious and easy. The walnut chicken takes longer than 15 minutes, but is definitely worth it. I have used other cookbooks with much more involved recipes, but so far, the dishes from this book turned out the best.

Rating:
Summary: Great Ideas, Very Few Ingredients, Wonderful Taste
Review: This is a great book to keep on hand. So far, everything I have made was really well received by my family (and they are fussy!). The chicken piccata is especially delicious and easy. The walnut chicken takes longer than 15 minutes, but is definitely worth it. I have used other cookbooks with much more involved recipes, but so far, the dishes from this book turned out the best.